Clean room module, clean room system and self-locking method for a clean room module

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of clean rooms, in particular to a clean room module, a clean room system and a self-locking method of the clean room module. The clean room module comprises: a shell, a sealing window arranged on the shell, a sealing piece arranged around the sealing window, an automatic opening and closing device connected with the sealing window and used for controlling the opening and closing of the sealing window, a self-locking device arranged on the shell and located on the side of the sealing window, the self-locking device being capable of being connected with and locked by the self-locking device of another clean room module from the outside, the sealing piece being in sealing contact with the sealing piece of the other clean room module when the self-locking device is locked, and the clean room module sending a locking signal to a controller when the self-locking device is locked, the automatic opening and closing device opening the sealing window in response to an opening window signal generated by the controller according to the locking signal. The clean room system has better convenience, reliability and sealing stability.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of cleanroom technology, and in particular to a cleanroom module, a cleanroom system, and a self-locking method for the cleanroom module. Background Technology

[0002] A cleanroom is a well-sealed space where parameters such as air cleanliness, temperature, humidity, pressure, and noise are controlled as needed.

[0003] The development of cleanrooms is closely linked to modern industry and cutting-edge technology. Because industries such as precision machinery, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and medicine all have high environmental requirements, cleanroom technology has been continuously evolving, and cleanrooms have been widely used in these fields.

[0004] On the other hand, the high mobility of industries is a new trend in increasingly fierce market competition. Traditional cleanrooms are permanently located within factory buildings. When faced with various events such as the introduction of new processes, the rollout of new product lines, the iterative upgrading of factory functions, or the addition of new equipment, production line changes are inevitable. During these changes, the dismantling and relocation of cleanrooms are unavoidable. Existing cleanroom technologies involve high relocation costs and lengthy installation times. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To solve, or at least partially solve, the above-mentioned technical problems, this application provides a cleanroom module, a cleanroom system, and a self-locking method for the cleanroom module.

[0006] The cleanroom module includes: an outer shell with a sealed window and a sealing element surrounding the sealed window; an automatic switching device connected to the sealed window for controlling its opening and closing; and a self-locking device located on the outer shell and on the side of the sealed window. The self-locking device can connect and lock with the self-locking device of another external cleanroom module. When the self-locking device is locked, the sealing element forms a sealing contact with the sealing element of the other cleanroom module. When the self-locking device is locked, the cleanroom module sends a locking signal to the controller, and the automatic switching device responds to the window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal, opening the sealed window.

[0007] This application also provides a cleanroom system having multiple of the aforementioned cleanroom modules, and each cleanroom module being able to be connected to each other via a self-locking device.

[0008] This application also provides a self-locking method for a cleanroom module, comprising the following steps: in response to a locking operation between the self-locking device and a self-locking device of another external cleanroom module, sending a locking signal to a controller; and in response to a window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal, opening a sealed window via an automatic switching device.

[0009] The cleanroom provided by the embodiments of this application uses a modular approach to replace the traditional prefabricated cleanroom, enabling rapid disassembly and relocation when changes are needed in the production line. Therefore, compared with the prior art, the cleanroom system of this application has better convenience, reliability, and sealing stability. Attached Figure Description

[0010] To better illustrate the embodiments of this application, the relevant accompanying drawings will be briefly described below. It is understood that the drawings described below are only for illustrating some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain many other technical features and connections not mentioned herein based on these drawings.

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cleanroom module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a cleanroom system according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 3 This is a partial schematic diagram of a sealed window in a cleanroom module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a partial schematic diagram of a first locking component in a cleanroom module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of a second locking component in a cleanroom module according to an embodiment of this application; Figure 6 This is a partial schematic diagram of a cleanroom module in an embodiment of this application when the first locking component and the second locking component are locked.

[0012] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: a. Cleanroom module; 1. Outer shell; 2. Sealed window; 3. Sealing element; 4. Self-locking device; 41. First locking component; 42. Second locking component; 43. Third locking component; 5. Automatic switching device. Detailed Implementation

[0013] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] In the prior art, the applicant found Chinese invention patent CN111809938A entitled "A Modular Cleanroom," and Chinese utility model patent application CN211646785U entitled "A Modular Cleanroom." Both of these prior art technologies use bolt assemblies and metal plate fixing blocks, respectively, to secure the modules. However, the assembly and disassembly processes of these fixing methods are very cumbersome and cannot meet the rapid iteration requirements of process evolution.

[0015] In view of this, embodiments of this application propose a self-locking method for a cleanroom module, a cleanroom system, and a cleanroom module.

[0016] First Embodiment The first embodiment of this application discloses a cleanroom module 100, see [link to relevant documentation] Figure 1 As shown, it includes: an outer shell 1, a sealed window 2 disposed on the outer shell 1, and a sealing element 3 disposed around the sealed window 2. Typically, in order to achieve the most reasonable space utilization, the cleanroom module 100 constrained by the outer shell 1 can be a regular polyhedron shape, and in particular, it can be as follows: Figure 1 The image shows a rectangular frame. Therefore, the sealing window 2 can be installed on each of the surfaces of the outer casing 1 perpendicular to the bottom surface.

[0017] The interior of the outer casing 1 contains the functional components of the cleanroom module 100. For example, a centrifugal granulation device can be installed in a prior cleanroom module 100, and the granulated product can be transported to the vicinity of the sealing window 2 via a conveyor belt. A similar conveyor belt can be installed in the next cleanroom module 100, with a pressure device installed at the end of the conveyor belt to press the granulated product into a mold shape. Furthermore, the central cleanroom module 100 can also be equipped with a robotic arm, allowing multiple peripheral cleanroom modules 100 to connect to the central cleanroom module 100 from multiple directions, and the robotic arm can be used to assemble the products. The cleanroom system assembled from the cleanroom modules 100 can have many functions, which will not be elaborated here.

[0018] An automatic opening and closing device 5, connected to the sealed window 2, is used to control the opening and closing of the sealed window 2. The automatic opening and closing device 5 can employ various existing methods for opening and closing doors and windows. For example, a pneumatic rod or motor can be used as a power source to push or rotate the sealed window 2, thereby opening or closing it.

[0019] The self-locking device 4 is disposed on the outer casing 1 and located on the side of the sealing window 2. The self-locking device 4 can connect and lock with the self-locking device 4 of another cleanroom module 100 from the outside. When the self-locking device 4 is locked, the sealing element 3 forms a sealing contact with the sealing element 3 of the other cleanroom module 100. For the cleanroom module 100 of this application, the sealing element 3 can be a rubber ring surrounding the outer periphery of the sealing window 2. The rubber ring can be provided with grooves and protrusions, and the grooves and protrusions of the sealing elements 3 between the two different cleanroom modules 100 can match each other to obtain a better sealing effect. Through the sealing contact between the sealing elements 3, a sealed channel can be established between the two cleanroom modules 100. When the self-locking device 4 is locked, the cleanroom module 100 can send a locking signal to the controller, and the automatic switching device 5 can open the sealing window 2 in response to the window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal.

[0020] The self-locking device 4 can be any electronic or mechanical lock available in the prior art. Taking a mechanical lock as an example, a latch can be provided on one cleanroom module 100, and a spring lock groove can be provided on another cleanroom module 100. When the two are close together, the latch inserts into the spring lock groove, and the spring in the spring lock groove locks the latch. Optionally, the self-locking device 4 can be located in the area between the sealing window 2 and the seal 3. In this case, since the distance between the sealing window 2 and the seal 3 is smaller, this arrangement of the self-locking device 4 can reduce the adverse effects on the seal that may result from the deformation of the housing 1 under stress.

[0021] Furthermore, it is understood that in this application, the controller can be separately installed within each cleanroom module 100, independently controlling its respective cleanroom module 100. In this case, the cleanroom module 100 includes the controller. Alternatively, the controller can also be located in a control hub outside the cleanroom modules 100, providing overall control of all cleanroom modules 100 in the site.

[0022] Based on the above technical solutions, this application also provides a cleanroom system, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 As shown, the system is equipped with multiple cleanroom modules 100 as described above, and each cleanroom module 100 can be connected to each other via a self-locking device.

[0023] Furthermore, this application also provides a self-locking method for a cleanroom module, comprising the following steps: in response to the locking operation of the self-locking device 4 and the self-locking device 4 of another cleanroom module 100 from the outside, sending a locking signal to the controller; in response to the window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal, opening the sealed window 2 by the automatic switching device 5.

[0024] The cleanroom module 100 can be moved manually, or it can be mounted on a guide rail and moved by a device, or it can even be equipped with drive wheels and moved by remote control or AI control. When two cleanroom modules 100 approach each other, the self-locking device 4 moves closer to each other and locks itself when a critical distance is exceeded. Optionally, alignment sensors, such as infrared or laser sensors, can be provided on the housing 1 of the cleanroom module 100 to ensure that multiple cleanroom modules 100 are positioned opposite each other in the correct positions. When the two are locked, the controller can receive a locking signal. This locking signal can be issued by the self-locking device 4 itself or by a device (e.g., a trigger switch, sensor, etc.) installed on the self-locking device 4.

[0025] Once the controller receives the locking signal, it can immediately issue an opening signal, or it can delay for a certain period of time to ensure that the locking action of the self-locking device 4 has completely ended before issuing the signal. The specific timing for issuing the opening signal depends on the type of self-locking device 4 used.

[0026] Conversely, when it is necessary to separate each cleanroom module 100%, a separation signal can be issued through the controller. At this time, in response to the separation signal issued by the controller, the system can perform the following operations in sequence: close the sealing window 2 through the automatic switching device 5; release the locking state of the self-locking device 4.

[0027] The order of operations for releasing the self-locking device 4 is the reverse of the order of operations for locking the self-locking device 4, which ensures that the sealing window 2 remains closed when the self-locking device 4 is not in the locked state.

[0028] It is worth mentioning that the locking state of the self-locking device 4 can only be automatically released if the self-locking device 4 itself is of the type that can be controlled by an electrical signal. For the self-locking device 4 using a traditional mechanical lock, the locking state of the self-locking device 4 can also be released manually after the sealing window 2 is closed.

[0029] Alternatively, the sealing window 2 can be configured to include at least two sealing plates, each of which is independently controlled in its opening and closing state by an automatic switching device 5. Using double-layered and independent sealing plates can further prevent leaks caused by the failure of one of the sealing plates.

[0030] In summary, the cleanroom provided by the embodiments of this application replaces the traditional self-contained cleanroom with a modular approach, enabling rapid disassembly and relocation when changes are needed in the production line. Therefore, compared with the prior art, the cleanroom system of this application has better convenience, reliability, and sealing stability.

[0031] Second Embodiment The second embodiment of this application further improves upon the cleanroom module 100 of the first embodiment. In this embodiment, see... Figures 3 to 6 As shown, the self-locking device 4 includes a first locking component 41, which is paired with a second locking component in the self-locking device of another cleanroom module 100 so that locking is achieved when the two come into contact.

[0032] Optionally, see Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, the first locking component 41 may include an outwardly protruding striker for connecting and locking with the electronic lock included in the second locking component 42 of another cleanroom module 100. The locked state of both components can be seen in... Figure 6 Of course, the first locking component 41 may also include an electronic lock for connecting and locking with and to the outwardly projecting striker included in the second locking component 42 of another cleanroom module 100. The striker-type electronic lock provides a stable locking effect with a simple structure and has the advantage of low cost.

[0033] When the first locking component 41 and the second locking component 42 are arranged in pairs, the cleanroom module 100 can be assembled in pairs. When more cleanroom modules 100 need to be assembled, to improve the ease of assembly, optionally, see [reference needed]. Figure 3 As shown, the self-locking device 4 may include a third locking component 43, which is paired with a fourth locking component in the self-locking device 4 of another cleanroom module 100 to achieve locking when they come into contact. The first locking component 41 and the third locking component 43 are also matched as a pair. Furthermore, the locking components of the self-locking device 4 can be symmetrically distributed on the housing 1. Since the first locking component 41 and the third locking component 43 are also matched as a pair, any two cleanroom modules 100 can be paired with each other.

[0034] Accordingly, a sealing window 2 can also be provided around the outer casing 1, and multiple sets of automatic switching devices 5 and multiple sets of self-locking devices 4 can be provided to further improve the convenience of assembly.

[0035] Third Embodiment The third embodiment of this application further improves upon the cleanroom module 100 of the first or second embodiment. In this embodiment, the first locking component 41 includes a magnetic adsorption element for connecting and locking with a magnetic adsorption element included in the second locking component 42 of another cleanroom module 100.

[0036] When magnetic adsorption is used for connection and locking, the locking operation of the self-locking device 4 can be controlled by an electromagnet.

[0037] Specifically, for the first locking component 41, the magnetic adsorption element can be an electromagnet, while for the second locking component 42, the magnetic adsorption element can be an electromagnet or metallic iron. When the second locking component 42 is an electromagnet and it is necessary to release the locking state of the self-locking device 4, the magnetic poles of the two electromagnets can be set to be the same, forming a repulsive force between them, thereby causing the two cleanroom modules 100 to spring open.

[0038] Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that when an electromagnet comes into contact with iron or other electromagnets, it can form a conductive path, thus serving as a generator for a lock signal. In other words, a lock signal transmitter can be installed within the cleanroom module 100, and the transmitting circuit containing this transmitter is in a default, disconnected, and pending-activation state. This disconnected and pending-activation state includes, but is not limited to, installing a transmitting circuit in one cleanroom module 100 and a battery and other circuitry in another cleanroom module 100.

[0039] When two cleanroom modules 100 approach each other, the self-locking device 4 moves closer to each other, and after the electromagnet is activated, the two cleanroom modules 100 can be locked together. At this time, since the circuits of the two cleanroom modules 100 are connected and conductive, the signal transmitter can be powered on and send a locking signal.

[0040] Compared to setting up additional sensors to monitor whether the cleanroom module 100 has reached the locked state, this application directly connects the signal transmitter to the first locking component 41 and the second locking component 42, which significantly simplifies the circuit structure, reduces costs, and prevents misjudgment.

[0041] While this application has been described in detail with reference to only a limited number of embodiments, it should be understood that this application is not limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, this application can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not described herein but commensurate with the spirit and scope of this application. Furthermore, although various embodiments of this application have been described, it should be understood that each aspect of this application may include only a few of the described embodiments. In general, this application is not limited to the foregoing description, but only to the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cleanroom module, characterized in that, include: An outer casing, wherein a sealing window is provided, and a sealing element is provided around the sealing window; An automatic switching device, connected to the sealed window, is used to control the opening and closing of the sealed window; A self-locking device is disposed on the outer casing and located on the side of the sealed window. This self-locking device is capable of connecting and locking with a self-locking device from another external cleanroom module. The self-locking device includes: a first locking component, the first locking component including a magnetic adsorption element, the first locking component being paired with a second locking component in the self-locking device of another cleanroom module, so that the magnetic adsorption element connects and locks when the two come into contact; the magnetic adsorption element conducts a circuit when connected and locked, serving as a generator of a locking signal; The self-locking device is located in the area between the sealed window and the sealing element; when the self-locking device is locked, the cleanroom module sends a locking signal to the controller, and the automatic switching device responds to the window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal, opens the sealed window, and the sealing element forms a sealing contact with the sealing element of another cleanroom module.

2. The cleanroom module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-locking device includes a third locking component, which is paired with a fourth locking component in the self-locking device of another cleanroom module so that locking is achieved when the two come into contact. The first locking component and the third locking component are also matched as a pair.

3. The cleanroom module according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that, The locking components of the self-locking device are distributed symmetrically on the outer casing.

4. The cleanroom module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sealed window includes at least two sealing plates, and the opening and closing state of each sealing plate is independently controlled by the automatic switching device.

5. A cleanroom system, characterized in that, It includes multiple cleanroom modules according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and each cleanroom module can be connected to each other via the self-locking device.

6. A self-locking method for a cleanroom module, characterized in that, The application of the cleanroom module according to any one of claims 1 to 4 includes the following steps: In response to the locking operation of the self-locking device of the cleanroom module and the self-locking device of another external cleanroom module, a locking signal is sent to the controller; The self-locking device includes a magnetic adsorption component, which, when connected and locked, has its circuit turned on as a locking signal generator. In response to the window opening signal generated by the controller based on the locking signal, the sealed window of the cleanroom module is opened via an automatic switching device.

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